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Crockpot Pesto Chicken Recipe

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4.2 from 56 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Crockpot Pesto Chicken is a simple and delicious slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, herb-infused pesto sauce. This easy-to-make dish requires minimal prep and is infused with rich flavors from basil pesto, garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs well with various sides like pasta, rice, or low-carb vegetables such as zucchini noodles.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
  2. Add Garlic and Broth: Add the minced garlic on top of the chicken, then pour the chicken broth around the chicken breasts to keep them moist during cooking.
  3. Top with Pesto: Spoon the basil pesto evenly over the chicken breasts to infuse rich herb flavor.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
  5. Remove Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and set them aside on a plate.
  6. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir the softened cream cheese into the remaining cooking liquid in the crockpot until smooth. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully combined.
  7. Return Chicken and Add Tomatoes: Place the chicken breasts back into the crockpot, add the cherry tomatoes, and cook briefly until the tomatoes soften and everything is heated through.
  8. Serve: Spoon the creamy pesto sauce over the chicken, then garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese as desired.

Notes

  • Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
  • Customize by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli during slow cooking.
  • For extra cheesiness, stir in shredded mozzarella before serving.
  • Serve over low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep it keto-friendly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if sauce thickens.
  • Freeze cooled chicken with sauce for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
  • Avoid overcooking to prevent drying; boneless thighs help retain moisture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/crockpot-pesto-chicken-recipe/